V8 differences

34fordy

34fordy

Well-known member
I have always wondered if there were any differences in the camshafts or other internal parts as compared to passenger/commercial and big trucks. Any enlightenment appreciated.
 
I tore down 3 engines out of early fifties pickups about 30 years ago. IIRC, the cams were all marked "8BA", not "8RT". Where the differences are is with Mercurys and '52-'53 Fords. The "8CM", "1CM", etc. have more aggressive profiles than the earlier Ford cams. When I put the '51 Merc into my '51 Ford, I was debating which cam to use between a MAX-1 and the stock Merc cam. After comparing the specifications, I stuck with the Merc cam in such a relatively heavy car. So far I think I made the right choice.

If you haven't already seen it, this chart is an interesting read.

https://www.tildentechnologies.com/Cams/FlatheadPerformance.html.
 
In certain years, there were differences between passenger and truck heads, and some blocks were relieved. Truck carbs had air horn differences. Beyond those differences is above my pay grade.
 
Tubman, you did make the right choice. Long story on why I put a Max 1 in my 52 8BA, story doesn't matter, but the end result was the rebuilt engine with the Max ! didn't perform as well as it did with the 8CM cam. Lesson learned too late.
 
mfirth, Thank you for the respons as I chose the 53 merc cam for my latest build that I havent road tested yet and was hoping I did make the right choice. Tim
 
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